Robert Wesley Kumpula

February 16, 2013

HIGH POINT, NC - Robert Wesley Kumpula, 59, passed away on February 7, 2013 at his home in High Point, North Carolina from cancer.

Robert was born on January 17, 1954 in Marquette, Michigan, a son of the late Wesley and Arbutus Kumpula and attended Marquette area schools.

He served in the United States Coast Guard stationed initially in Norfolk, Virginia, serving aboard the Tanney. He later transferred back to the Upper Peninsula where he was stationed in Escanaba, Michigan.

His love of cars started early and lasted a lifetime. He worked as an automobile mechanic all of his life and was previously employed at Midas Muffler in Marquette for many years. His final position was in Greensboro, North Carolina working with friends at Merican Muffler.

Robert loved to camp, fish and travel with his wife, Chris. He was also a staunch supporter of second amendment rights and politics in general.

He is survived by his wife, Christine Ethington; daughter, Jennifer Kumpula; sons, Brian and Robert Kumpula and Eric Pohlman; two sisters, Anne Koepp and Mary Reynolds; also surviving are many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death besides his parents was a brother, Edward Kumpula.

A Memorial service will be held at the Presque Isle Pavilion on Thursday February 21, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Leon Jarvis presiding. The family will greet relatives and friends beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the Pavilion.

The Canale-Tonella Funeral home is assisting the family with arrangements where memories may be shared at www.canalefuneral.com.